Nelumbo nucifera
( Empress Lotus )

Nelumbo nucifera is a flowering, aquatic plant with beautiful, fragrant flowers. The species has 2 feet wide, round leaves, held 3 to 6 feet above the water surface. The lotus flower is usually pink, 4 to 10 inches in diameter, with a single flower per stem. Color can vary from white to rose, with double flowered varieties, and dwarf plants being developed for small ponds and containers. The fruit is woody and ornamental, good for crafts. Seeds and tubers are used in Chinese cooking. Plant roots horizontally in a 1 1/2 foot container, 4 inches below the soil surface. Submerge the container 8 to 12 inches under the water surface. In areas where a freeze is possible, a deeper pond, or pond covering, will be required.

Plant Care

Fertilizing

Light

Conditions : Full to Partial Sun

Full sunlight is needed for many plants to assume their full potential. Many of these plants will do fine with a little less sunlight, although they may not flower as heavily or their foliage as vibrant. Areas on the southern and western sides of buildings usually are the sunniest. The only exception is when houses or buildings are so close together, shadows are cast from neighboring properties. Full sun usually means 6 or more hours of direct unobstructed sunlight on a sunny day. Partial sun receives less than 6 hours of sun, but more than 3 hours. Plants able to take full sun in some climates may only be able to tolerate part sun in other climates. Know the culture of the plant before you buy and plant it!

Watering

Planting

Problems

Miscellaneous

Edibles : Edible Landscape

An edible landscape is one in which all or most of the plants can be eaten or used for cooking in some way. If you are interested in edible gardening, it is highly recommended that you pratice organic methods in the garden. At the very least, do not use chemicals in the area of the garden where there are edibles. Be creative. Many edibles look great in containers, hanging baskets, or even as foundation plants.

Glossary : Aquatic

An aquatic is any plant that is grown in water, whether as a floater or rooted in wet soil.